U.S. Ex-security Chiefs Slam Trump Over Security Access

A dozen former US intelligence leaders have backed ex-CIA Chief John Brennan after his security clearance was revoked by President Donald Trump.

U.S. Ex-security Chiefs Slam Trump Over Security Access

A dozen former US intelligence leaders have backed ex-CIA Chief John Brennan after his security clearance was revoked by President Donald Trump.

Former CIA and National Intelligence bosses called President Trump's move "an attempt to stifle free speech" in a joint statement on Thursday.

The US. media say President Trump is keen to strip other high-ranking officials of access to classified information.

The nine people currently on a review list have all criticized the President.

Many have also been involved in the investigation into Trump's 2016 election campaign's alleged collusion with Russia.

President trump has described the ongoing US. Department of Justice inquiry as a "sham", repeatedly denying any collusion with Moscow.

He told the wall street journal it was a "rigged witch hunt", led by "these people" from the us intelligence community.

The White House said removing his access to sensitive Government information on Wednesday was due to Mr. Brennan's "erratic conduct" and "outrageous allegations".

Brennan then hit back saying Mr. Trump's claims of no collusion were "hogwash".

Former top intelligence officials typically retain their clearances for a time, often advising successors.

William Mcraven, a retired Navy Admiral who oversaw the raid that resulted in the death of Osama Bin Laden, also wrote an open letter to Trump on Thursday, saying he would consider it "an honour" if his own clearance were removed.